Transportation 結果共158筆

The Ministry of Transportation and Communications (MOTC) has abruptly halted the solicitation of tours to China, reversing its previous policy. Originally scheduled to open on March 1, tours from Taiwan to China were limited to a daily reference cap of 2,000 people, with the possibility of adjustments based on the travel industry’s ability to attract customers. The decision to halt the tours immediately was made in response to China’s failure to organize tours to Taiwan and its unilateral change of the M503 flight route without goodwill, which poses a threat to flight safety. The Tourism Administration, a part of the MOTC, believes that given the current circumstances, it is not in the best interest of Taiwanese nationals to travel to China. They continue to appeal to China to demonstrate goodwill and promote cross-strait tourism exchange. Tours that have already been solicited and are due to depart between March 1 and May 31, 2024, will proceed as planned to protect passenger rights, but tours after June 1 are not permitted to depart. Travel companies are urged to refrain from soliciting customers to avoid potential disputes.

Explore the vibrant beauty of cherry blossoms at the Yangminshan Flower Festival in Taipei from Feb. 7 to March 17. Taipei’s mayor encourages public transport use due to limited parking.

Taiwan’s Minister of Transportation and Communications, Wang Kuo-tsai, expresses regret after China unilaterally adjusts flight routes, raising aviation safety concerns. The decision to cancel the ＂offset measure＂ for the M503 flight route and start east to west operations near Taiwan without bilateral negotiation has led to potential conflicts between civilian and military aircraft. The proximity of Route M503 to the Taipei Flight Information Region poses a risk, with the nearest point just 4.2 nautical miles away. Take-off and landing in Matsu and Kinmen without prior consultation could also raise safety issues. The national security units are now handling the situation and consulting with the Civil Aviation Administration and the military to develop responsive measures.

The Taiwan High Speed Rail Corporation (THSRC) plans to recruit over 100 new talents, including maintenance technicians, engineers, and professionals in various fields. Generous offers include a monthly salary of up to NT$48,000 for electrical and signal maintenance technicians. The corporation provides comprehensive employee benefits, such as allowances and subsidies for food, clothing, accommodation, transportation, education, and entertainment. New employees will undergo three to six months of comprehensive training and must pass an assessment before starting their shifts. The THSRC also offers educational training opportunities for employees to complete professional training effectively and safely.

The Ministry of Transportation and Communications (MOTC) has approved a comprehensive plan for the Taichung Metro Blue Line and a feasibility study for the Taiwan Railway’s coastline dual-track. The completion of the transit system is estimated to be in 10 years, costing NT＄1615.14 billion, with NT＄675.59 billion borne by the central government. The Blue Line will connect Taichung Port to the city center, serving as the city’s most crucial east-west axis. It will also connect with the Green Line to form a cross-axis network. An agreement on the deployment of the Blue Line’s Shalu Overpass section was reached by the MOTC and Taichung City Government. The completion of the Taichung Metro Blue Line and the Taichung Port rail line’s dual track system is expected to improve the Taichung area’s rail infrastructure and spur balanced development in urban, rural, and coastal regions.

Taiwan’s Minister of Transportation and Communications, Wang Kwo-tsai, has confirmed that EVA Air will address the issue of Lunar New Year flight cancellations independently. The airline had initially reduced the number of air tickets from 38,000 to 33,000 per day, resulting in a daily cancellation of 5,000 tickets. After weeks of negotiations, EVA Air and its pilots’ labor dispute reached a settlement with the coordination of Vice Premier Cheng Wen-tsan. The pilots’ union initially demanded a 20% pay raise, but EVA Air agreed to an increase in addition to the previously announced wage adjustment. The new arrangement includes additional monthly payments for pilots, senior deputy pilots, and deputy pilots. The airline has also agreed to revise the annual salary increase limit.

The Minister of Transportation and Communications stated that a potential strike by EVA Air pilots during the Lunar New Year holiday could affect at least 15,000 people per day, with an estimated impact of at least 105,000 people over the seven-day holiday. Negotiations between the airline and its pilots are ongoing, but significant gaps remain, particularly regarding salary. Achieving consensus has proven difficult, as both sides have resolute attitudes. The Minister hopes for continued communication between workers and management to bridge the gap. During the Lunar New Year holiday, approximately 151,000 people are expected to enter and exit the country daily, with around 38,000 per day traveling on EVA Air. It is estimated that around 40% of EVA Air pilots have voted in favor of a strike. The pilot’s union has announced a possible strike warning zone from Feb. 7 to 18 and March 30 to April 7, with plans to initiate the strike if negotiations fail.

Taiwan’s Ministry of Transportation and Communications (MOTC) has responded to a citizen-led initiative calling for changes in traffic practices. The ministry announced that the regulation allowing two-stage left turns will not be abolished entirely but should be evaluated based on site-specific characteristics. The initiative also called for the prohibition of motorbikes on inner lanes of general roads and reform of the driver’s license test system. The MOTC stated that local governments should assess and plan motorbike lanes and two-stage left turn control measures according to their specific road traffic conditions. The ministry emphasized that motorbike riders should follow road sign guidance, and universal rules should only be followed in the absence of signs. In terms of the licensing system, the ministry has implemented a motorbike training program since 2019 to enhance driving quality and response capabilities. The program has been successful, resulting in a 56% decrease in traffic violations and a 35% decrease in accidents by 2022. The Highway Bureau of MOTC plans to continue promoting the program and implementing road training measures in 2024, periodically reviewing and adjusting the test content to optimize the training system for motorbike operators.

Rush hour chaos on Taipei’s Wenhu Line as overcrowded trains lead to unintentional physical contact among commuters. Mayor Chiang Wan-an’s solution aims to ease the overcrowding.

Taiwan prepares for the coldest period of the winter as Lunar New Year approaches, according to meteorological expert Peng Chi-ming. If a cold surge leads to disaster, it is classified as an ＂other natural disaster,＂ potentially resulting in work or school closures. Employers are advised to implement safety measures and consider potential risks caused by cold temperatures. Failure to comply with guidelines may result in fines of up to NT$300,000. Holidays due to low temperatures are unprecedented in Taiwan, with work or school suspension only possible if low temperatures cause a disaster. In extreme cold weather conditions, transportation, water, or electricity disruptions may lead to work or school suspension based on assessment by city and county chiefs.

Bus drivers in Taichung City met with the Transportation Bureau to express their concerns about long hours and lack of facilities. The drivers discussed their difficulties, including working 14 to 15 hours a day and not having enough time for breaks or restroom use. Democratic Progressive Party Taichung City Councilor Chang Fen-yu highlighted how poor labor conditions contribute to a shortage of drivers and hinder public transportation development. Taichung Transportation Bureau Director-General Yeh Chao-fu committed to improving conditions and compensation for drivers, including wage calculation, monitoring mechanisms, insurance, and vehicle maintenance.

The Taiwan Railway Corporation embarks on a transformative journey in 2024, grappling with fare adjustments, financial challenges, and a potential labor shortage. Chiou Yu-chiun provides insights into the future of the state-owned enterprise amid these pivotal changes.

Taiwan People’s Party (TPP) presidential candidate Ko Wen-je held a rally in Taichung, urging supporters to transcend traditional Blue and Green politics. The event drew a large crowd, demonstrating strong support for Ko. During his speech, Ko expressed gratitude and reassured the audience that victory is close. He emphasized the need for better transportation systems and highlighted the potential of local industries. Ko questioned whether the Kuomintang (KMT) can effectively address day-to-day problems. He appealed to voters to set aside traditional political divides and focus on the electorate’s concerns.

The Taipei City Department of Transportation will announce the implementation date of the free 30-minute YouBike rental policy after the 2024 budget is passed. The policy aims to reduce carbon emissions by 40% and increase the use of green transportation to 70% by 2030. It was previously implemented in 2012 but ended in 2015. A public opinion poll in 2023 showed support for the policy among motorcyclists and the YouBike community, with over 60% of motorcyclists willing to switch to using YouBike for short trips. To address potential bike shortages, the department has added 1,780 bikes in May and 1,500 bikes in December 2023, increasing the availability of bikes citywide from 80% to 90%. In 2024, the department plans to add another 6,000 YouBikes and improve scheduling and personnel to meet the increased demand.

The 2024 Taiwan Lantern Festival is returning to Tainan for the first time since 2008, taking place from Feb. 24 to March 10. The main lantern, ＂Dragon Comes to Taiwan,＂ was unveiled by the Ministry of Transportation and Communications’ Tourism Administration. Inspired by the dragons on the stone columns at the Tainan Grand Mazu Temple, the 18-meter-tall dragon lantern is accompanied by a 22-meter main lantern. This year’s lantern design transforms the dragon into a small round lantern with the same pronunciation as the Taiwanese snack ＂xiaolongbao,＂ adding a touch of tradition and children’s anticipation. The festival will illuminate the ＂High-Speed Rail Lantern Area＂ and ＂Anping Lantern Area＂ in Tainan. In celebration of Tainan’s 400th anniversary, the city government will light up the ＂Anping Lantern Area＂ in advance on Feb. 3, allowing residents and tourists to enjoy the spectacle during the Lunar New Year holiday. Tainan Mayor Huang Wei-che expressed high hopes for the festival, praising the main lantern design for its unique representation of Tainan and Taiwan’s lantern festival through a blend of culture, nostalgia, and playful creativity.

Taiwan’s Minister of Transportation and Communications, Wang Kwo-tsai, announced that worker rights and disputes in Taiwan Railway will be handled by a board of directors once it becomes a company on Jan. 1, 2024. This marks a departure from the current practice where the Minister has jurisdiction over such matters. The transition will be commemorated with a plaque unveiling ceremony at Taipei Station, signifying Taiwan Railway’s separation from the administrative agency Taiwan Railways Administration. Wang expressed optimism for a fresh start, including the resolution of debt, enhanced safety protocols, and more flexible systems. In response to concerns raised by the Taiwan Railway Labor Union regarding employee vacation rights and driver treatment, Wang stated that decisions will be made by Taiwan Railway as a company. Wang also addressed worries about a potential retirement wave among senior maintenance staff, emphasizing that retirement is a normal occurrence in all workplaces and that the inclusion of younger employees could lead to improved performance.

The Kaohsiung Circular Light Rail Transit has received permission to operate from the Ministry of Transportation and Communications (MOTC) and will begin trial operations from January 1 to February 25, 2024. The C24 to C32 sections of the light rail have completed inspections and necessary adjustments, allowing for formal operations. Kaohsiung Deputy Mayor Lin Chin-rong expressed gratitude towards the MOTC and the city government team for their efforts in enabling the last sections to commence operations before year-end. With the launch of the C24 to C32 segments, the circular light rail will have 38 stations and stretch for 22.1 kilometers. To encourage citizens to use this new transportation route, the Mass Rapid Transit bureau will offer ＂Free Rides on all Light Rail Segments＂ from New Year’s Day until February 25, 2024.

Taipei (TVBS News) - Kaohsiung Mayor Chen Chi-mai has announced that Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. (TSMC) is making progress on schedule with the construction of its first factory in Kaohsiung. The second factory has also received the necessary license, and administrative procedures are underway. The city government has ensured that Kaohsiung has ample water and electricity supply, as well as available land. Plans are in place for a reclaimed water plant and the promotion of green electricity. The government is fully committed to assisting in the development of the industrial park, including urban planning, transportation improvements, and collaborations in talent training. Kaohsiung City Government is closely cooperating with TSMC to expedite the realization of the company’s advanced processing facilities.

The Taiwan Railways Administration (TRA) is facing concerns over potential fare hikes as it transitions to a state-owned enterprise on its 137th anniversary. The TRA has not made any fare adjustments in the past 28 years, leading to speculation about its next move. While fare reviews are mandated every two years, public sentiment has prevented changes since 1995. Experts argue that fare scales should reflect the true cost. Hochen Tan, the former Minister of Transportation and Communications, supports the TRA’s corporatization and calls for an overhaul of its financial structure and gradual fare adjustments. Tu Wei, the current TRA Director-General and future chairman of the new corporation, mentioned plans to propose a fare adjustment scheme in Q1 2024. However, a subsequent press statement clarified that these were Tu’s preliminary thoughts, leaving the question of fare adjustments unanswered for now.

The Transportation Bureau of Kaohsiung City Government (TBKC) has announced plans to regulate traffic around 10 major tourist spots in anticipation of the increased activities expected for the New Year’s holiday season. Measures will be implemented based on the transportation status on the day, with the aim of ensuring smooth traffic flow during the annual New Year’s Eve party in Kaohsiung and the New Year’s Eve fireworks show at Eda World. TBKC has released a guide on Facebook outlining phased road controls, entry routes, and parking plans, while also imposing stricter rules against illegal parking and towing in surrounding areas. To effectively disperse crowds, the Kaohsiung Metro (KRTC), circular light rail (LRT), and railway system will increase their services and operating hours. Residents are advised to check radio broadcasts and real-time online traffic updates before leaving home and are recommended to use public transportation like the metro instead of driving.

China’s Taiwan Affairs Office spokesperson, Zhu Fenglian, has announced an increase in the quantity of Kaoliang liquor passengers can carry between the coast of Fujian Province and Kinmen and Matsu islands. The limit has been raised from four to six bottles, in response to the desire from residents to loosen restrictions. This is the second adjustment to the regulations, with the initial change in 2006 raising the previous limit from two to four bottles. These policy changes aim to promote an interconnected living plan between Xiamen and Kinmen, as well as Fuzhou and Matsu, contributing to the integrated development of both sides of the strait. Zhu expressed confidence that these measures will bring further benefits to the people of Taiwan, particularly the residents of Kinmen and Matsu, and emphasized China’s commitment to implementing measures that deepen cross-strait integration and enhance welfare for the Taiwanese.

EVA Air, a Taiwanese airline, has announced a record six-month year-end bonus, the highest since its establishment. The bonus will also be distributed to its subsidiaries, including airport services, sky kitchens, and aviation technologies. In addition, EVA Air plans to adjust salaries for employees in 2024, with ground and cabin crew members seeing an average adjustment of NT$5,000 and pilots receiving adjustments ranging from NT$11,000 to NT$20,000 based on their position. However, this announcement comes amidst potential strike action by EVA Air pilots, leading to concerns that the wage increase announcements are an attempt to pacify them. The Taoyuan Flight Attendants’ Union has emphasized the importance of fair distribution of year-end bonuses and salary increases regardless of the proposed pilot action. Rival airlines Starlux and China Airlines have also announced their year-end bonuses, with Starlux providing a one-month bonus and an approved salary increase of NT$2,000, and China Airlines reportedly planning to distribute a three-month bonus (although the union is demanding five months’ worth). In the marine transportation industry, YangMing Marine Transport Corporation has scaled down its year-end bonus from 13 months last year to two months this year due to a downturn in the shipping industry. The shipping corporations’ lower year-end bonuses are attributed to the ＂revenge-travel boom＂ post-pandemic. Other industries with high year-end bonuses include finance, semiconductor, and construction, with 1.83, 1.38, and 1.23 months respectively.

Starting Jan. 1, 2024, taxis from the Taipei Songshan Airport will charge a $50 stay service fee, aligning with fees at Taoyuan and Kaohsiung airports. This decision, made following evaluations by the taxi fare review committees of Taipei and New Taipei cities, aims to address rigorous competition and rising operational costs in the industry. Passengers traveling through the airport, also known as Taipei International Airport, should take note of the new transportation cost changes, especially during peak travel periods such as New Year’s Day, the Lunar New Year, and the 228 holidays. The airport authorities have urged scheduled taxi operators to provide quality service and inform passengers about the fee change through verbal explanations and in-vehicle signs. Additionally, the airport offers free parking for the first 30 minutes, providing some relief for those being dropped off by family members.

Starlux Airlines has announced its participation in the U.S. Transportation Security Administration (TSA) PreCheck program, allowing qualified passengers to enjoy expedited security checks when traveling to or transiting through the United States. Eligible travelers on Starlux flights to the U.S. will have access to a dedicated security lane where they can keep their shoes, belts, light jackets, electronics, and liquids in their carry-on luggage. Passengers eligible for PreCheck will receive a Known Traveler Number (KTN) to provide when booking flights or during airport check-in. The program also extends its benefits to children aged 12 and under. TSA PreCheck is available at over 200 airports in the United States.

The Yunlin County Government has announced the sale of its TPASS ticket, priced at NT＄199, which will become active next Tuesday. The TPASS integrates various modes of public transportation within the county, including Taiwan Railway, highway buses, local city buses, and public bicycles, providing an economical solution for commuters. The pass allows unlimited use for 30 days, covering 69 highway and city bus routes and five Taiwan railway stations. Pass holders will also enjoy the first 30 minutes of public bicycle use without charge. The Yunlin TPASS is tied with Hualien for the lowest-priced monthly transit pass nationwide and covers the most extensive range of transit routes within a single county or city. To celebrate the launch, pass holders can enjoy an exclusive promotion, including a ＂buy one, get one free＂ offer for two people traveling together from Douliu Train Station to Janfusun Theme Park by presenting their TPASS ticket stub.